Tacos Dorados are crispy, golden tacos filled with tasty stuff like seasoned meat or potatoes. They’re just plain fun to eat, and worth the crunch!
I love serving them with fresh salsa and a dollop of sour cream. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Masa Harina: This is the star of your tacos, giving them that perfect corn flavor. If you can’t find masa harina, look for cornmeal, but it won’t have the same texture. I recommend checking local Latin markets—they often carry it.
Filling: I always go for shredded chicken, but you can easily switch it up! Try shredded beef, pulled pork, or for a vegetarian option, use cheese or black beans. Just make sure your filling is cooked, as you’ll just heat it in the taco.
Vegetable Oil: You need oil for frying. I prefer canola or peanut oil for their high smoke point. If you want to make it healthier, consider baking the tacos instead, but frying does give that traditional crunchy texture.
Queso Fresco: This cheese adds a lovely creamy touch. If you can’t find it, try feta or even mozzarella for a different flavor. I love crumbling it right before serving for fresh taste!
How Do You Ensure Your Tacos Are Crispy and Delicious?
Frying the tortillas is where you can shine! Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the tortillas to get that perfect crispiness. Here’s how:
- Heat the skillet to medium heat, then test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough in; if it sizzles, you’re ready.
- Fry each tortilla for 1-2 minutes on each side. Don’t crowd the skillet; it will lower the oil temperature and make them soggy.
- Once golden brown, place on paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
Remember, patience is key. If you rush, they might not turn out as crispy!
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tortillas:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
For The Filling and Toppings:
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (or beef, pork, or cheese for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup lettuce, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or other cheese)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup salsa (red or green, to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the dough and filling the tacos, and around 20 minutes frying them until they’re crispy and golden. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Mix together the masa harina, warm water, and salt. Stir everything until a soft dough forms. If your dough feels too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more masa harina until it’s just right.
2. Shape the Tortillas:
Once your dough is ready, divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Using a tortilla press or a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a disc that’s about 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Keep them small, so they can be filled easily!
3. Fry the Tortillas:
Time to heat things up! In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place one tortilla in the skillet. Fry it for about 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to take it out and drain the excess oil on paper towels. Repeat this process for all the tortillas.
4. Fill and Fold:
Take each fried tortilla and put a generous spoonful of your cooked shredded chicken (or whatever filling you choose) on one half. Fold it over to create a taco shape. Don’t worry if it takes a few tries to perfect the folding!
5. Finish Frying:
Continue to fry any remaining tortillas and fill them with the rest of your filling. Keep them warm while you finish all of them off!
6. Serve Fresh and Hot:
Arrange your delicious Tacos Dorados on a plate. Top each taco with a sprinkle of shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and a spoonful of salsa. Feel free to add as much or as little as you like!
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your Tacos Dorados while they’re hot! Remember, they’re even better with extra salsa and your favorite garnishes on the side!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat or Filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shredded chicken with cooked beef, pork, or even cheese for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat is fully cooked and seasoned to your liking before filling the tacos.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
To store leftovers, separate the components. Keep the filled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to store the toppings separately to maintain their freshness. To reheat, place the tacos in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the masa dough ahead of time! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Before using, let it come to room temperature and knead it briefly to restore its texture.
How to Adjust the Dough Consistency?
If your dough is too dry, add warm water a little at a time until it’s soft. Conversely, if it’s too wet, sprinkle in a tiny bit more masa harina until the consistency feels just right — pliable but not sticky!
